or fishing trip. If you clash with your guide, your trip can go from fun to sour in short order. If appropriate, be sure that you will enjoy sharing multiple days with the guide. Keep in mind that a guided trip is a personal experience; take some time getting to know your guide and determine if you are a good match. Also be sure that you and your guide have the same goals for the trip. For example, are you more interested in a quality vacation experience or pursuing a trophy?
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Discuss with the prospective guide everything that will be included in the package price. Make sure that you both are clear on every detail and are in firm agreement on the price and services offered and expected.
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Ask for a list of past-client references. References can be an invaluable source for gaining an understanding of the guide’s demeanor and skills as well as for investigating hunting or fishing successes and results. Be sure to contact a number of references in order to get the “big picture.” Be wary of prospective guides who will not provide a list of references.
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Verify that your guide is fully licensed in Maine and in the category of activity you plan on doing. Many guides are licensed in one area specifically, such as fishing, hunting or recreation. Also, be sure to verify that your prospective guide has the proper federal licenses, if required, and insurance. Have a few conversations with a prospective guide to see whether your personalities mesh. If possible, meet with the guide in person prior to booking the hunting
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Be realistic, and have attainable goals. Realize that many factors can affect hunting or fishing trips, including things like inclement weather, that are beyond the control of the guide. Be sure that you are not asking your prospective guide for something unreasonable, unobtainable or unsafe.
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We recommend that you have a written confirmation of what is included when booking a trip that outlines each detail offered, promised or expected on the excursion. It is recommended that the confirmation also include the method of payment and terms of payment. Terms for cancelations or refunds should be outlined in the agreement. Be wary of cash-only deals with no paperwork. It is also advisable to request a written receipt once the trip is completed.
Who’s Guiding Your Insurance Decisions? United Insurance has 14 offices that can provide coverage as special as your next adventure. Give us a call if you are an outdoor guide or recreation outfitter, or run an outdoororiented business such as a hunting or fishing lodge or sporting camp.
Travis Duval · 207-834-3181 TravisDuval@UnitedInsurance.net 11